First Lesson: Hosea 2:14-20

Theme: Reclaiming the fallen and restoring their faith

Exegetical Note
The prophet of the northern kingdom here uses love and marriage imagery drawn from contemporary pagan worship as well as from his own experience of spousal infidelity in order to affirm that God is prepared to seduce adulterous, Baal-chasing Israel and to restore her lovingly to marital fidelity and intimacy.

Call to Worship
Leader: Give thanks and praise, brothers and sisters, for God’s willingness to forgive us when we stray!
People: EVEN WHEN WE ARE UNFAITHFUL TO GOD, GOD IS FAITHFUL TO US, AND READY TO BECKON AND WELCOME US BACK.
Leader: Though we chase after other gods and idols in our lives, be they Baal or Mammon or the American Dream,
People: GOD IS THERE TO SEEK US, SUMMON US, AND…